Cat Won’t Drink Water? 8 Simple Fixes That Actually Work
Cats are naturally fussy drinkers. Their ancestors got most of their moisture from prey, so modern house cats often don’t feel the urge to drink much water especially if they eat mainly dry food. But dehydration can lead to urinary tract problems, kidney issues, and fatigue.
Luckily, these 8 easy and vet-approved fixes will help encourage your cat to drink more water and stay healthy year-round.
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1. Try a Cat Water Fountain
Cats love running water because it mimics natural streams and feels fresher to them. A fountain also keeps the water oxygenated, encouraging regular drinking.
Top pick: Catit Flower Fountain – Check on Amazon UK
2. Use a Wide, Shallow Bowl
Cats dislike narrow bowls that touch their whiskers known as whisker fatigue. Wide, shallow bowls make drinking more comfortable and reduce stress.
Recommended: Necoichi Raised Ceramic Bowl – Check on Amazon UK
3. Add Cat-Friendly Broth or Flavour
Cats are drawn to savoury aromas. Adding a splash of chicken or tuna broth can entice them to drink more water. Avoid any with onions or garlic, which are toxic.
Try this: Applaws Cat Broth Pouches – Check on Amazon UK
4. Mix Wet and Dry Food
Adding wet food to dry meals boosts hydration naturally. Wet foods contain around 70–80% moisture, making a huge difference to your cat’s daily water intake.
Vet-favourite: Purina ONE Wet Cat Food – Check on Amazon UK
5. Keep Water Fresh & Filtered
Cats can detect chlorine and stale smells. Changing water daily and filtering it can make it far more appealing.
Simple fix: Brita Water Filter Jug – Check on Amazon UK
6. Raise the Drinking Height
Some cats prefer water bowls elevated to shoulder height. This reduces strain and can make drinking more enjoyable.
Helpful tool: Petkit Elevated Cat Bowl Stand – Check on Amazon UK
7. Try a Hydration Supplement
If your cat still refuses water, consider adding a safe electrolyte powder or hydration enhancer to food or water.
Example: VETIQ Hydration Plus Powder – Check on Amazon UK
8. Know the Signs of Dehydration
Watch for these signs:
Dry or sticky gums
Skin doesn’t bounce back when gently pinched
Sunken eyes or lethargy
If you notice any of these, contact your vet immediately.
🐾 Final Thoughts
Encouraging your cat to drink more water doesn’t have to be difficult. A few small tweaks — like a fountain, wide bowl, or broth topper — can make all the difference for your cat’s health and happiness.
💡 Try this: Start with a fountain and switch to filtered water. Most cats respond within days!
